Perfect Fit
I think I indicated that I wanted to be a teacher when I completed my first All-About-Me book in second grade. My mom was a second grade teacher for 35 years before she retired, and my dad was a teacher, principal and director of student services before he passed away. I cherished our family time together each evening, weekend and summer, and since my parents both adored their jobs, it seemed like the perfect fit for me.
Professional Accomplishments
In 2008, I was elected vice-president of OhioASCD, the state affiliate of ASCD International. During this four-year term, I also served as president-elect, president and past-president of an organization that serves about 800 school leaders across the state. Now that I’m in the last phase of this experience, I’m grateful for the opportunities ASCD has given me.
Facilitator to Student Growth
I used to be much more involved in actually instructing students via PowerPoint, large group discussion, etc. However, because I often teach technology, I’ve learned that most students retain what they learn much better if they actually teach themselves, so I more readily identify myself as a facilitator to student growth.
Creating New Programs
Over the past few years, I’ve worked with Dr. Gannon and Dr. Capel in creating our new Master of Arts in Educational Leadership. Writing a cutting-edge, innovative and relevant curriculum for future school leaders was so much fun! We really enjoyed the process (even though it was pretty rigorous), and we’re so pleased that the program is up and running now.
People
The people are absolutely my favorite part of my job. Mount Union seems to attract students who not only work hard, but who are also fun to be around and teach. I also really like my colleagues. I’m so fortunate to work with individuals who always make me smile!
Cozy Space
I love my office in Chapman. It’s huge, has lots of natural light and is away from faculty and right in the line of students heading to and from class on the second floor. It’s perfect for meeting students. I just need to add more décor to the walls to make it cozier!
Personal Touch
What we (Mount Union) so often feature are faculty members who have the time—and the drive—to get to know students on a personal level. They can subsequently offer them an education that dovetails with their interests, passions and professional goals, all the while challenging their worldview.